Canadian Student Remains Behind Bars in Pakistan

Toronto-based University of Toronto PhD student Hamza Ahmed Khan is still in Lahore district jail after being denied bail, sparking concern among his family and human rights advocates.

His brother, Awes Ahmed Khan, described the past week as “emotionally draining,” with family members rushing between lawyers’ offices and courtrooms to secure his release.

“There’s no reason to keep him behind bars. It feels like punishment before any trial,” Awes said. “We haven’t slept properly in a week.”

Arrest Linked to Social Media Activity

Ahmed Khan, who holds dual Canadian-Pakistani citizenship, travelled to Pakistan in December to conduct research on democracy promotion in Muslim-majority societies. His family says he went missing on Feb. 19 and has been in custody since Feb. 21.

Pakistan’s National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) alleges that his X and Instagram accounts were “disseminating misinformation targeting state institutions,” citing violations of the 2016 Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act.

Ahmed Khan’s lawyer, Asad Jamal, criticised the decision to deny bail, noting that it relied on precedents that don’t fit this particular case.

Court Warns About “Derogatory Campaigns”

Judicial magistrate Muhammad Naeem Wattoo emphasised the seriousness of digital content in today’s world, noting that inflammatory posts can have “instantaneous and far-reaching consequences.”

He differentiated between “ordinary criticism” and conduct “capable of disturbing public order and national cohesion,” adding that the possibility of tampering with evidence could not be dismissed.

Awes Ahmed Khan disputes the court’s reasoning, pointing out that his brother shared ideas with a small, public audience.

“If sharing critical posts about human rights or government policies leads to jail time without fair process, it affects everyone’s freedom of speech,” he said.

Ahmed Khan’s X account has roughly 15,700 followers, yet Awes says the risk of evidence tampering is “completely unjust” since online posts cannot simply be erased or altered.

Family Holds Out Hope Amid Legal Challenges

The family has filed a bail petition in district court, with plans to appeal to Pakistan’s high court if necessary. However, Jamal admits the path is uncertain.

Experts note Pakistan’s political climate complicates the matter. Ahmed Shafiqul Huque, a McMaster University professor, points out that recent military consolidations of power limit the courts’ independence.

“The military has become the most powerful institution, even above elected officials,” Huque said. “This makes the outlook for fair judicial outcomes quite challenging.”

Staying Strong Through Adversity

Awes says their family, composed mainly of doctors and engineers, has never dealt with felony convictions, and Hamza’s resolve keeps them going.

“The one thing holding us together is Hamza’s determination,” he said. “Even behind bars, he gives us hope by thinking of family and the life waiting after this ordeal.”

The post Toronto Student Denied Bail in Pakistan Over Social Posts first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Eviction Notice Delivered Without Warning

The University of Regina has ordered the Students’ Union (URSU) to leave its campus offices and commercial spaces by Wednesday, August 20, 2025, after abruptly terminating its lease. Security officers delivered the eviction notice in person, giving staff only minutes to collect personal belongings before locks were changed.

Students’ Union Seeks Extension

URSU Vice-President Jwalant Patel said the union was blindsided by the decision, as the original termination date was set for September 1. He argued the shortened deadline provides little time to transition operations, urging the university to allow the union to remain until the end of the month.

Impact on Student Services

The sudden closure has raised fears about the continuity of essential services funded through student fees. These include the subsidized transit pass, health and dental coverage, and the community fridge. Students worry about losing representation on campus at the start of a new academic year.

University Explains Decision

University President Jeff Keshen said the eviction was driven by a “loss of confidence” in URSU’s ability to represent students effectively. The university will now oversee bookings for the multi-purpose room and has shuttered the Lazy Owl bar until further notice.

Student Reactions

Reactions from the student body reflect frustration and concern. Business student Pall Agarwan called the move “saddening and heartbreaking,” citing the loss of support systems. Others noted the importance of spaces like the Lazy Owl, which they considered part of the campus identity.

Next Steps in Dispute

Patel has written to the university, objecting to the limited timeline and the requirement to leave behind student-funded assets. URSU maintains these should be held in trust only if the union is dissolved through a membership vote, not by administrative order. The union has asked for a response from the university by Monday, August 18.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

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Surviving in Canada on a Student Budget – 2025 Guide

Canada is a dream destination for students worldwide, offering high-quality education and a vibrant multicultural environment. But with tuition, rent, groceries, and daily expenses on the rise, living on a student budget can feel overwhelming.

This 2025 guide breaks down practical, real-world strategies to help you spend wisely, save effectively, and still enjoy life in Canada.

Step 1: Know Your Costs Before You Spend

The first step to financial survival is knowing exactly where your money goes. Common student expenses in Canada include:

• Tuition fees – Your biggest expense, varying by program and institution.
• Rent – Higher in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
• Groceries – Manageable if you cook at home.
• Transportation – Public transit is almost always cheaper than a car.
• Utilities & Internet – Sometimes included in rent, sometimes not.

Tip: Use free budgeting apps like Mint or YNAB to track your spending in real-time.

Step 2: Find Affordable Housing

Housing can drain your budget fast. Consider:

• Shared apartments – Split costs with roommates.
• On-campus residences – Predictable costs, zero commute.
• Sublets & co-living spaces – Often cheaper and fully furnished.

In 2025, co-living is becoming increasingly popular among students for its flexible leases and included utilities.

Step 3: Slash Food Expenses Without Sacrificing Health

Eating out every day can blow your budget. Instead:

• Shop at discount stores like No Frills or FreshCo.
• Buy store brands and seasonal produce.
• Use Flashfood or Too Good To Go apps for discounted items.
• Meal prep on Sundays to save time and money.

Cooking with friends can cut costs and make mealtime social.

Step 4: Get Around for Less

Most universities and colleges offer U-Pass programs in 2025—unlimited public transit at a student rate.

• If you live close to campus, cycle or walk to save more.
• Use car-sharing services only when absolutely necessary.

Step 5: Boost Your Income While Studying

Your study permit often allows 20 hours/week during semesters and full-time during breaks.

• Apply for on-campus roles in libraries, cafes, or admin offices.
• Take freelance or part-time jobs that match your skills.
• Apply for scholarships and bursaries—many students skip this step and miss out on free money.

Step 6: Enjoy Canada Without Overspending

Student life isn’t just about studying—enjoy it smartly:

• Use your student ID for discounts on entertainment, travel, and shopping.
• Take advantage of free events, parks, and community programs.
• Share streaming subscriptions with friends to cut costs.

Final Word: Balance is Key

Living in Canada on a student budget in 2025 is absolutely possible. The secret lies in spending intentionally, saving consistently, and seeking out opportunities to earn extra income.

With the right approach, you won’t just survive—you’ll thrive, graduate debt-smart, and have memories that last a lifetime.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

The post Surviving in Canada on a Student Budget – 2025 Guide first appeared on Maple News Wire.